Your magnificent New Zealand journey begins today upon arrival in Christchurch, where you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your premium hotel. After settling in, enjoy a specially curated Welcome Dinner at one of the city’s finest restaurants, featuring exquisite local cuisine and wines. It’s the perfect introduction to your unforgettable adventure ahead.

Today begins with an Insider Experience. Later, take a scenic drive through the Southern Alps. This stunning region is home to the Franz Josef/Waiau and Fox Glaciers, as well as spectacular lakes and rainforests. 

Insider Experience – TranzAlpine train 

Embark on one of the world’s great rail journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train. Climb over the snow-capped Southern Alps through striking scenery to the wild West Coast. 

A stunning drive across Haast Pass brings you to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Here, enjoy an Insider Experience. 

Insider Experience – Bask in idyllic views during your special stay at Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Relax and unwind in your room, which boasts sublime views of Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped peaks of The Remarkables. You’ll be just a short stroll from Queenstown’s vibrant centre, giving you ample time to explore and make the most of all that this lively resort town has to offer. Whether it's great food and wine, shopping or adventure that you're after, Queenstown has something just for you. 

Start the day with an Insider Experience. Then, enjoy lunch at Queenstown’s famous Fergburger. With the rest of the day free for you to spend at leisure, you may like to partake in one of our Enhance Your Journey options. 

Insider Experience – Ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak in Queenstown 

Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, 480 metres high. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and the town sprawling out beneath you. 

Enhance Your Journey – Million Dollar Cruise 

Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life as well as enormous trout, which swim in the lake’s waters. 

Enhance Your Journey – Shotover Jet Boat Ride 

Those feeling adventurous can head out on a thrilling jet boat ride, roaring through narrow river canyons just centimetres from sheer rock walls. 

Enhance Your Journey – TSS Earnslaw Cruise 

Join the historic steamer TSS Earnslaw on a cruise to Walter Peak Station for dinner, where you will gain an insight into farming life in New Zealand’s high country. 

Follow The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu to the incredible Fiordland National Park, where an Insider Experience waits. Later, travel to Te Anau. 

Insider Experience – Cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and enjoy spectacular scenery

Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter. 

Journey through the rugged countryside of Southland before arriving in Dunedin for a tour of the city’s sights. This picturesque city is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand, where you can spot sea lions, fur seals, rare penguins and the world’s only mainland-breeding albatross colony. After being settled by Scots in 1848, the city has retained its Gaelic roots with its stunning Gaelic-inspired architecture, performances of the haggis ceremony and the finest-tasting whisky in the country.

See the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki and visit the charming town of Oamaru. Journey to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy an Insider Experience. Later, arrive at Peppers Bluewater Resort for dinner. 

Insider Experience – Majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook 

Travel through the glorious alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and stop to admire breathtaking views of New Zealand's highest peak. 

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, taking in lake views before continuing to Christchurch.

Journey north from Christchurch to the port town of Picton, where you will embark on a special Insider Experience. Later, arrive in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington. 

Insider Experience – Interislander Ferry 

Enjoy one of the world’s most scenic voyages on the Interislander ferry to Wellington on the North Island. Take in marvellous sights as you glide across the inlets of the Marlborough Sounds before navigating Cook Strait and cruising into the tranquil waters of Wellington Harbour.

Continue north to Taupō, known for its world-class restaurants and resorts. The town is located on the northern shore of Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest lake. Later, witness the thundering power of Huka Falls, which is the country’s most visited natural attraction. Afterwards, continue your journey to Rotorua. 

Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Māori culture and rich heritage. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to the Agrodome or alternatively, you might like to partake in our Enhance Your Journey experience. This evening, enjoy a memorable Insider Experience.  

Enhance Your Journey – Hobbiton movie set and farm tour 

Enjoy a scenic drive to The Shire’s Rest Cafe, where a guide will escort you through the site, visiting buildings created for The Lord of the Rings movies. 

 Insider Experience – Experience Māori culture and geothermal wonders at Te Puia in Rotorua

Immerse yourself in a unique evening of Māori culture, and cuisine at Te Puia. Embark on a guided tour through the historical geothermal valley, where you'll explore a stunning landscape of native bush, geysers, and mud pools. Feel the awe-inspiring power of Pōhutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. Experience an intimate encounter with one of New Zealand’s national treasures at their new Kiwi Conservation Centre. That evening, enjoy a Haka pōwhiri (cultural welcome), dance performances and the sharing of a traditional meal of fish, lamb and vegetables slow-cooked in earth ovens known as Hāngī.

Travel to Waitomo for an Insider Experience, then continue to cosmopolitan Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city.  

Insider Experience – Waitomo Caves 

Descend into the caves beneath the lush Waitomo hills and look up to see a cavern illuminated with hundreds of tiny lights. A sight to behold, the phenomenon is the work of glowworms, which are unique to New Zealand. 

Journey north to see a mighty kauri tree and marvel at its size. Continue to the stunning Bay of Islands where a Insider Experience waits. 

Insider Experience – Bay of Islands Cape Brett Cruise 

Keep an eye out for sea life encounters as you cruise through the Bay of Islands. Set off from the Cape Brett Peninsula and cruise through the distinctive Hole in the Rock formation (conditions permitting). 

The Bay of Islands is home to 144 islands, providing a stunning aquatic playground off the north coast of the North Island. Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore the subtropical surrounds. Your Tour Director is always on hand to offer some fantastic suggestions to make the most of your time here. This evening, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers. 

After breakfast, return to Auckland for your transfer to the airport, marking the end of your journey with us.